One of the main causes of ingrown toenails is improperly cut nails that grow into the soft skin at the edge of your toe, causing pain, oozing, bleeding, and possible infection. People who have poorly treated bunions and other toe deformities are more susceptible to developing ingrown toenails due to the added pressure on the sides of the toes. Seeing your foot doctor regularly can help catch foot and ankle problems before they intensify.
3 great tips to help prevent painful ingrown toenails include the following:
1) Trim your toenails properly—Try to trim your toenails a little long and only on a slight curve. This will help keep the front edge of the nail from growing into your tender skin.
2) Wear the right shoes—Choose shoes with a wider toe box to keep your toes from being pushed together. Tight-fitting shoes like high heels can directly contribute to the formation of ingrown toenails and should be avoided.
3) Inspect your feet at least once a week—Checking your feet for problems once a week is a great habit to get into. If you have diabetes you should check every day for the start of ingrown toenails and any other cuts and scrapes to help catch infections before they can spread.
Ingrown toenails that are seriously bent or that occur further down the edge of the toenail may need to be surgically modified to provide relief.
If you are experiencing painful ingrown toenails, see your foot doctor for treatment. Dr. Scott Nelson of Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, TX (county of Dallas) is a board-certified and highly experienced podiatrist who has helped people suffering from all types of foot and ankle injuries and deformities. From bunions to diabetic foot problems, sports injuries and fungal nails, you can trust that Dr. Nelson and his staff are wholeheartedly devoted to your foot health. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.